To prepare the oxalic acid dribble method for five hives, you must create a precise mixture of 8.75 grams of oxalic acid crystals, 6 fluid ounces (approximately 150 grams) of hot water, and 3/4 cup (approximately 150 grams) of sugar. Once mixed, you will use a syringe to apply the solution directly onto the bees between the frames, strictly limiting the dosage to a maximum of 50 cc per hive.
Core Takeaway: The "dribble" method relies on bees ingesting small amounts of the solution and physical contact to kill mites. Because the solution is mildly toxic to the bees themselves, adherence to the specific recipe and the maximum dosage limit of 50 cc per colony is vital to prevent harming the hive.
Mixing the Solution
Required Equipment and Safety
Before handling oxalic acid, you must put on appropriate protective gear, including gloves and eye protection.
Select a mixing container that is never used for food products. Once the solution is prepared, clearly label this container as POISON to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.
The Five-Hive Recipe
To treat five colonies, measure your ingredients precisely:
- 8.75 grams of Oxalic Acid crystals
- 6 fluid ounces (approx. 150 grams) of hot water
- 3/4 cup (approx. 150 grams) of sugar
The Mixing Procedure
Start by pouring the hot water into your container. Add the oxalic acid crystals to the water and stir continuously until the crystals are completely dissolved.
Once the acid is fully dissolved, add the sugar. Stir the mixture again until the sugar is dissolved and the liquid is clear.
Application Procedure
Environmental Conditions
Check the ambient temperature before beginning. Do not open the hives or apply this treatment if the temperature is in the low 40s Fahrenheit or below.
Preparing the Dosage
Draw exactly 50 cc of the prepared solution into your syringe. This is the absolute maximum volume you will use for a single hive.
Applying to the Frames
Identify the gaps (seams) between the frames where the bees are clustered. Dribble the solution directly onto the bees in these spaces.
Limit the application to 5 cc of solution per frame gap.
If you are treating a hive with multiple boxes, begin your application in the lower box and work your way up. Continue until you have treated all bee-occupied spaces or until you have used the full 50 cc limit for that hive, whichever comes first.
Understanding the Trade-offs
Toxicity and Ingestion
This method works partly because bees ingest the sugar-acid mixture. While this kills mites, it can cause mild harm to the bees.
Treatment Frequency
Because of the potential for harm, this method is best utilized as a single treatment. Repeated applications can compound the toxicity and negatively impact bee longevity.
Brood Considerations
The dribble method is most effective and safest when applied during a period with no brood. When brood is present, mites hiding under capped cells will escape the treatment.
Making the Right Choice for Your Goal
- If your primary focus is winter mite control: Apply this treatment when the colony is broodless to maximize mite kill rates and minimize the need for repeat exposure.
- If your primary focus is colony safety: Strictly adhere to the 5 cc per seam limit and never exceed 50 cc total per hive to avoid overdosing the cluster.
Precision in measurement and moderation in application are the keys to success with the oxalic acid dribble.
Summary Table:
| Ingredient/Step | Measurement/Detail |
|---|---|
| Oxalic Acid Crystals | 8.75 Grams |
| Hot Water | 6 fl oz (150g) |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 Cup (150g) |
| Max Dosage per Hive | 50 cc |
| Max Dosage per Seam | 5 cc |
| Ideal Temperature | Above 40°F (4°C) |
| Best Timing | Broodless periods |
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